When you need help with your computer software, which is often, you always call Mike, and receive reasonably good help. One day, you call Mike and follow his instructions to the letter, only to find that you've reformatted your hard drive and lost all your data. When Susan asks you whom she should call for help with her computer you say, "Anyone but Mike." Yet you find yourself dialing his extension the next time your computer crashes. This paradox is explained by a combination of
A) S-O and S-R learning.
B) habit and instinct.
C) outcome devaluation and instinctive drift.
D) occasion setting and instrumental conditioning.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The paradox of seeking help from Mike despite a negative experience is explained by S-O (Stimulus-Outcome) and S-R (Stimulus-Response) learning. S-O learning involves understanding the relationship between a stimulus and its outcome, while S-R learning focuses on the association between a stimulus and the response it elicits. Despite the negative outcome, the habit (S-R) of calling Mike for help persists because the action (calling Mike) has been reinforced over time by previously received help, overshadowing the single negative outcome.

When You Need Help with Your Computer Software, Which Is